Martin Luther King Jr. Day provides occasion for reflection as well as recognition. We honor his personal courage as well as political impact as catalyst for the civil rights revolution.

Initially, he was reluctant to assume leadership beyond his local community, concerned as well as insightful in seeing that might ultimately cost his life. He was perceptive but took on the job nonetheless, and persevered continuously until his assassination in the spring of 1968.

King’s leadership qualities were recognized while he was still young. Striking rhetorical skill was one key ingredient, cast in charismatic delivery. He was also often, though not always, a shrewd politician.